Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C)
Location: Hershey, PA
Job Type: Locum
Company: Palm Careers
Category: Healthcare
Job Description Apply Now
The Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) is an integral member of a high-volume cardiac surgery program dedicated to excellence in patient care and clinical outcomes. This full-time contract opportunity is designed for experienced professionals seeking to contribute their expertise to a dynamic team performing advanced cardiac procedures. The role involves a broad range of responsibilities across the continuum of perioperative care, including consultation, intraoperative support, and post-operative management. The position offers a compelling blend of clinical autonomy and teamwork, making it ideal for motivated physician assistants who thrive in fast-paced, specialized surgical environments.
Our program specializes in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), valve repair and replacement, and complex aortic repairs, performing approximately 300 cases annually. The team does not handle thoracic cases, focusing exclusively on cardiac surgery. As a Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant, you will also participate in ECMO cannulation and patient transfers, developing your skills in highly specialized procedures. The position is based in Pennsylvania, offering the chance to work in a region known for its vibrant healthcare community and supportive professional environment.
We are committed to supporting our team members with comprehensive resources, including paid malpractice insurance, housing, travel accommodations, and additional benefits. The workplace culture emphasizes collaboration, education, and professional growth, ensuring that each team member has the tools needed to deliver exceptional patient care and contribute meaningfully to the program’s success. This assignment offers a unique opportunity for Cardiothoracic Physician Assistants who are passionate about advancing their surgical skills and working alongside leading cardiac surgeons and multidisciplinary staff.
Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) - Summary- Temporary, full-time contract position within a high-volume cardiac surgery program
- Focus on coronary artery bypass, valve repair/replacement, and aortic repairs
- No thoracic cases; exclusive dedication to cardiac surgery
- Participation in ECMO cannulation and patient transfer
- Comprehensive support package including malpractice insurance, housing, and travel
- Located in Pennsylvania, offering access to a robust healthcare network
- Provide perioperative patient management in consultation, ICU, step-down, and clinic settings
- Serve as first assist in cardiac surgical procedures including CABG, valve repair/replacement, and aortic repairs
- Perform advanced bedside procedures such as radial arterial lines, central lines, chest tube placement, and thoracentesis
- Demonstrate proficiency in Maquet endoscopic vein harvesting
- Utilize EPIC electronic medical record (EMR) for documentation and clinical workflows
- Participate in the cannulation of ECMO and coordinate patient transfers as needed
- Collaborate with the multidisciplinary team to optimize patient outcomes and ensure continuity of care
- Engage in patient and family education related to cardiac surgical care and recovery
- Competitive contract compensation for the duration of the assignment
- Paid malpractice insurance coverage provided for the full term of employment
- Housing accommodations arranged and paid for by the employer
- Travel support including flight, car rental or mileage reimbursement as applicable
- Additional resources and support to ensure a successful assignment
- Active Physician Assistant license (PA-C) in Pennsylvania, or eligibility to obtain one prior to start date
- Demonstrated experience in endoscopic vein harvesting using Maquet systems
- Proficient in surgical first assisting for cardiac surgery procedures
- Skilled in placement of radial arterial lines, central lines, chest tubes, and performing thoracentesis
- Experience with EPIC EMR strongly preferred
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
- Strong communication, clinical assessment, and organizational skills
- Experienced Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) with a track record in high-volume cardiac surgery programs
- Proficient in advanced perioperative procedures and intraoperative support
- Committed to ongoing professional development and quality improvement in cardiac care
- Adaptable, collaborative, and dedicated to patient-centered care
- Comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-paced surgical environment
- This is a contract role designed to support the cardiac surgery team for a defined assignment term
- All necessary licensure and credentialing must be completed prior to start
- Comprehensive orientation and onboarding provided upon assignment start
- Equal opportunity employer; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status
If you are a dedicated Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) with the required expertise and are seeking a professionally rewarding contract opportunity, we encourage you to take the next step in your career. Click the job application button to apply and join our mission-driven team delivering outstanding cardiac surgical care in Pennsylvania!